Folk music comes to Kansas City in force

A lot of people really enjoy folk music, otherwise known as the common man’s music.

One of the biggest events in Kansas City music is currently underway. The event is the International Folk Alliance conference in Kansas City, Mo.

Some of the best artists from around the world are currently here in Kansas City. People come from all over the world just to be at this conference and the public has an opportunity to hear them. This event only happens once a year.

Recently Rita Coolidge, a nationally known singer, was at the conference. Coolidge reached the top of the music charts with several songs, including a remake of “(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher” in 1977. Among her many other hit songs were “The Closer You Get,” “We’re All Alone,” “The Way You Do the Things You Do,” “All Time High,” and “I Stand in Wonder.”

“Folk music is organic, it is about people and things that are going on,” Coolidge said. “It truly sets it apart from any other type of music.”

The Three Trails West Cowboy band is based here in Wyandotte County and was part of the annual conference last year. This band is playing again at the conference this year.

This year the event is even bigger and better than last year and the people of Wyandotte County are playing a major role. Many volunteer for this annual event, giving not only Kansas City, Mo., but also Kansas City, Kan., and Wyandotte County international recognition. A lot of people who are attending this major event come over here to shop and eat as well as in Kansas City, Mo.

The International Folk Alliance conference is at the Sheraton Crown Center, 2345 McGee in Kansas City, Mo., and for $25 the public can see some of the best internationally known folk music artists. Or they may go to the website at www.folk.org for more information.